THE newly installed Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, has called on President Bola Tinubu to approve the creation of Ibadan State, describing it as a long-standing demand of the people.
Oba Ladoja made the appeal today during his coronation ceremony at the historic Mapo Hall, where he was officially installed as the 44th Olubadan and presented with the staff of office by Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde.
Speaking before a crowd of dignitaries, traditional rulers, and residents, the monarch said the request for statehood reflects the collective aspirations of Ibadan people and the Olubadan-in-Council.
“They have a message for you, Mr. President — they want Ibadan State,” he declared, asking the audience to applaud Tinubu “in advance” for granting the request. He further urged that the state be created before the 2027 general elections.
Nigeria currently has 36 states across six geopolitical zones, and state creation remains a key subject in the ongoing review of the 1999 Constitution.
The coronation ceremony was attended by prominent figures including the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Abimbola Owoade; the Soun of Ogbomoso, Oba Ghandi Ọlaoye; the Sultan of Sokoto, Muhammadu Sa’ad Abubakar III; and former governors Donald Duke, Ibikunle Amosun, Olagunsoye Oyinlola, and Rabiu Kwankwaso.
President Tinubu, who was present at the event, congratulated Oba Ladoja, describing him as “a rare gem in history” and commending his resilience, particularly during his impeachment struggle as Oyo governor.
Tinubu also reassured Nigerians that the economy is beginning to recover and promised better days ahead.
Oba Ladoja, who marked his 81st birthday a day earlier, pledged to continue serving Ibadan, Oyo State, Nigeria, and Africa.